Dharma and Child Rights: A Value-Based Approach to Child Protection

In the Indian classical and legal-ethical tradition, Dharma signifies duty, righteousness and moral responsibility. It offers a solid moral foundation that underpins the effective protection and realization of child rights. This paper examines Dharma as a value-based ethical framework and its relevance to strengthening child rights in modern society. Despite the existence of comprehensive statutory and constitutional safeguards for children, issues such as child abuse, neglect, exploitation and inadequate care continue to endure. The objective of this study is to analyse the relevance of Dharma in promoting ethical responsibility towards children and in reinforcing the moral dimension of child protection alongside formal legal mechanisms. It further explores how Dharma can complement the principles of survival, protection, development and participation guaranteed under child rights frameworks. The study also involves interpretative analysis of child rights principles under national and international legal frameworks. It strengthens the ethical responsibility of individuals, families, institutions and the State towards children. The paper concludes that Dharma can serve as a supportive ethical framework alongside legal provisions for child protection. Its doctrinal interpretation highlights its continued relevance in enhancing the moral and legal commitment to safeguarding child rights in modern society. Key words: Dharma, Child Protection, Social Order, Child Abuse, Human Rights.